Laurent Robert scored two contenders for goal of the season and made two other goals for Alan Shearer as Newcastle hammered Spurs.

Robert thundered home a left-foot volley and later carried the ball from his own half before lashing a shot into the top corner.

He also took the two corners from which captain Shearer scored his goals.

It meant Spurs' dismal away record continued - with just one win outside of White Hart Lane this season.

In an otherwise quiet first half devoid of outstanding chances, Robert's first goal was the only real moment of excitement.

KEY MOMENTS

35 mins: Robert scores a stunning goal

55 mins: Robert scores an even better one

59 mins: Shearer slots home a third

66 mins: Shearer is on target again

With the Tottenham backline under pressure, Dean Richards managed to clear the ball but only as far as Robert, 35 yards out, and the Newcastle winger returned a volley which gave goalkeeper Kasey Keller no chance.

The visitors had earlier threatened through Robbie Keane, who tested Shay Given with a dipping volley, and later Frederic Kanoute missed his kick when presented with a chance.

But after the opening goal it was all Newcastle with Shola Ameobi, teed up by Robert, forcing Keller to parry.

Then 10 minutes after the break Robert picked up the ball in his own half, took it on and blasted a shot into the top corner.

The match was put beyond doubt in the 59th minute when Tottenham left Shearer in space and the former England captain prodded home his 100th goal at St James' Park.

Kanoute (left) was well marked by Bramble

Sir Bobby Robson's side knew then they would be extending their lead to five games - but Shearer was not finished.

In the 66th minute Spurs proved they had not learned their lesson as Shearer was again left with sufficient space to score from a Robert corner.

It was 33-year-old Shearer's 16th goal of the season and it capped a miserable afternoon for David Pleat and Chris Hughton in the first game after they were confirmed as Tottenham's new management team until the end of the season.

The London club hope to appoint a new man at that point and whoever it is will have much work to do.

By contrast Sir Bobby Robson, whose team have now moved back up to fifth, continues to enchant the Tyneside public.